Reds must make do minus duo

PACK pillars Taniela Tupou and Izack Rodda are being rested from Saturday’s clash in Tokyo which makes the Queensland Reds look even riper for an ambush.

Prop Tupou is being rested from the must-win clash against the Sunwolves in line with Rugby Australia’s workload management guidelines for top Wallabies.

It’s been an emotional week for lock Rodda with his father’s funeral on Monday. The Reds have wisely advanced his rest plan to this weekend for one originally slated for Lukhan Salakaia-loto, who will now shift from the backrow to lock.

Coach Brad Thorn said the Round Five clash was a “predetermined rest match by Rugby Australia” for two players. More accurately, certain overseas matches were proposed by RA to reduce travel impact as well but the exact matches have been left up to the Reds’ discretion.

Either way, the Reds are without two key figures at the physical and scrummaging heart of the team.

Prop Ruan Smith and backrower Angus Scott-young are the solid cover in the starting pack but experience is diluted on the bench with Harry Hoopert and Angus Blyth.